Star Students (Gold)

Kathryn Ashby, Madisonville-North Hopkins High School Katy Ashby and her fellow Madisonville-North Hopkins High School students were stunned just before school started in August, when they learned two of their teachers had been diagnosed with cancer. Ashby had recently become involved with the Hopkins County Relay for Life board of directors as a youth representative, and in honor of the two teachers, she and other students launched a campaign at school to benefit the American Cancer Society. The effort, Ashby said, "strives to increase student awareness about cancer, while raising funds and offering opportunities to serve." Friends and family say that such initiative and purpose is typical of Ashby. "Katy has high moral standards and is a young lady of character," said the Rev. Ken Hundley, associate pastor of First United Methodist Church in Madisonville. "She has strong personal beliefs and lives her life based on these beliefs. These beliefs are largely determined by her strong faith in God and a desire to live her life as a Christian. She has a strong personal witness." Ashby takes her studies seriously, as well, and math is her favorite subject. "Katy is a serious student who strives to achieve to the highest level," said Virginia Hougland Browning, a math teacher and Academic Team coach at Madisonville-North Hopkins. "She is willing to spend the extra time to perfect her skills." Browning pointed to Ashby's third-place finish in math at the Kentucky State Regional Governor's Cup Competition. Ashby is involved in various other activities at school, including cheerleading, and her community involvement doesn't stop with Hopkins County Relay for Life. She has volunteered with Special Olympics and other organizations. She is the daughter of Lanny and De De Ashby of Hanson, Ky. Ashby said that throughout her life, "I have learned that the best way to find myself is through service to others, which often led me to overcome obstacles within myself."

Clinton Berry, Owensboro High School Those who observe Clint Berry today might be surprised to know that the Owensboro High School student was diagnosed with a learning disability in the first grade. He is currently in the top 10 percent of his class, with a near perfect grade-point average, and is a member of the Student Council and the National Honor Society. He also earned Eagle Scout honors. No one is prouder than Berry's mother, Gina Berry of Owensboro, Ky. "He has amazed teachers on his ability to adapt and excel in his classes," Gina Berry said of her son. "Through the years, he has struggled with this disability. At a young age, this disability destroyed his self-esteem and confidence. At times, he felt isolated and different from his peers." He persisted, though, and his mother said the disability helped him forge a powerful work ethic. "Some teachers have described him as an overachiever," Gina Berry said. "He has always set high goals and achieved them. I believe he lives by the motto, 'Go Big or Go Home.'" The motto certainly applied to Berry's Eagle Scout project. He spearheaded the development of a $14,000 facility covering 2,500 square feet at Yellow Creek Park to be used for rehabilitation of injured American bald eagles and other birds of prey. "My project took over a year and a half from start to finish," Berry said. "The construction phase took over five months and over 500 man hours to complete ... I am truly proud of my accomplishment." Berry "managed to finish this project while balancing his course load," said Christina Haire, head of the Owensboro High School science department. Berry is a member of his school's concert band, golf team and academic team, and he holds a black belt in traditional karate. He works as a pharmacy technician for Danhauer Drugs in downtown Owensboro. "My goal is to attend college and to study pre-pharmacy or engineering," Berry said. "I intend to use my education to help others."

Gracelyn Bose, Castle High School The Castle High School student has volunteered in the Woodlands Nursing Home Alzheimer's care unit, St. Mary's Senior Center and Heritage Hospice. She also volunteers as a tutor, both after school and during her lunch hour. She said she aspires to travel to Haiti "and help with orphanages." In total, Bose volunteers about five hours per week. She sets a high bar for her other endeavors as well, having achieved a perfect grade-point average and earning National Honor Society membership. "She accepts responsibility for her own learning; she is never satisfied with completing the minimum requirements," said Sally Kleinknecht, a University of Southern Indiana math faculty member who has tutored Bose. Castle teacher Beth Euler has Bose in her Advanced Placement Literature and Composition class and describes her as inquisitive and conscientious. "She displays a maturity level beyond her years. Her insightful comments and often uncanny sense of others sets her apart from her classmates." Bose is a member of Castle's varsity tennis team, and she plays in the school band, earning three state gold medals in flute competition. She is a member of Castle's Japanese and Math clubs. The daughter of David and Evelyn Bose has found a way to successfully balance all of her activities, said Timothy Daniel, her uncle. "She is very disciplined and organized with her homework and community outreach." Whatever Bose decides to do in the future, Euler said, this much is certain: "She will continue to aspire to do her best and give back to her community."

Nicholas Boyd, Castle High School Castle High School student Nick Boyd has succeeded in the classroom, where he maintains a perfect grade-point average, and also as a varsity athlete in basketball, cross country and golf. But Boyd also delights in seeing those around him strive for their own goals in life. "I also help my classmates whenever possible, and achieve a great pleasure through helping others and seeing them succeed," Boyd said. Castle teacher Beth Euler said Boyd's desire to help others comes through during the class she teaches — Advanced Placement Composition and Literature. "He approaches even the most daunting tasks with enthusiasm and a love of learning," Euler said of Boyd. "He is an inquisitive and active class participant as well. His leadership skills are evident as he assists his classmates in producing group projects. He certainly meets the high expectations set forth in my class." Euler described Boyd as "a well-rounded student and individual. ... He is not only intelligent, but he is also well-mannered and ambitious." Boyd volunteers as a tutor, and he puts his basketball background to use for children in Warrick County, serving as a referee for Newburgh Youth Basketball. He also has volunteered at the Evansville Rescue Mission. A longtime friend of Boyd's, Dan Saylor, said Boyd certainly will "continue to be one of Castle High School's top students and successful at whatever he chooses to do." Boyd is the son of Clay and Cheryl Boyd. Boyd's father lauded his son's work ethic, listening abilities and compassion for others. "I have watched the maturation process turn a naturally curious young child into the determined, committed, and ambitious young adult Nick is today," he said.

Claire Alvey, Mater Dei High School Despite exhaustion and leg cramps, Claire Alvey kept her composure during a regional semi-final tennis match during her sophomore year at Mater Dei High School. “Claire maintained her self-control and integrity on the court under this high pressure situation and was a great example for her teammates,” said Christine Clements, tennis coach at Mater Dei. Clements described Alvey as a player who handles both victories and defeats with sportsmanship and dignity. “She is a quality individual with the highest standards for herself,” Clements said. Alvey is Mater Dei’s junior class president and a member of Student Council and several committees at the school. The daughter of Terry and Jean Alvey of Evansville is active outside of Mater Dei as well. She is on the Youth Resources of Southwestern Indiana Teen Advisory Council. She also works at McDonald’s, where, according to her grandmother, Josephine Alvey, she “always has a smile, even for the difficult customers.” Mater Dei math teacher Angela Strehl said Alvey “is a well-rounded individual. “She is an exceptional athlete, dedicated student and a pleasant person to be around. “She is a very positive thinker and helps others on a daily basis.” Alvey’s care and attention for others starts within her very own family, said Tim and Cindy Marx, her aunt and uncle. The Marxes said that Alvey has been a positive influence on all of their young children. They say she has built a special relationship with one of their daughters who is going through many tough times in different aspects of her life. “She gets very sad at times and sometimes needs someone to help talk her through some of her troubles,” the Marxes said. “Claire is the first and only person outside of our immediate family she will to talk to. “Claire always asks about her and how things are going for her. “She has taken her ‘under her wing’ and helped her at tennis and at life.”

Brittney Christian, Bosse High School Brittney Christian is known around Bosse High School as a soccer and track athlete, a trombone player in the band, a student with a near-perfect grade-point average and a leader. Christian is a student with tremendous drive, said Cathy Ferris, a Bosse physical education teacher and the school's track coach. Ferris also sponsors Bosse's TEENPOWER club, of which Christian is a member. "She strives to be the best student she can be," Ferris said. "On the track, she is the same. She works hard and leads by example. She has been willing to sacrifice herself for the sake of the team by stepping in and competing in events that she doesn't normally compete in. She is a captain and one of the most dedicated student athletes I have coached." Christian is pursuing an International Baccalaureate diploma at Bosse and is currently fourth in her class. Away from school, she works part time at T.J. Maxx and helps her family's business, Osborne Funeral Home, on an ongoing basis. She serves as a youth usher at Memorial Baptist Church and has volunteered for several organizations. "Brittney is very intelligent and personable. She handles herself with a sensible and appropriate response to each situation," said Larina Minor, a Memorial Baptist Church member. Shayla Osborne, Christian's aunt, said her niece manages to keep her priorities in order despite an extremely busy life. "She works hard to balance her time between sports and work but never loses focus on her school work," Osborne said. Christian knows that the approach to life her aunt described will benefit her later on. "I work hard because I want to have a bright future, and I know that hard work now is what will get me there," said Christian, the daughter of Robert and Stacia Christian of Evansville. "It gets hard sometimes, doing all the things that I do, but I just keep pushing because I know it will all pay off. ... I plan on continuing to strive for excellence throughout the rest of my life."

Ryan Dick, Mount Vernon High School In school and outside of school, Ryan Dick is plenty busy. The Mount Vernon High School student carries a perfect grade-point average. He's also a letter-winner with the school's cross country, basketball and track teams. In cross country, he was an all-Big 8 Conference selection last fall. The past two years, Dick was selected by his classmates to serve as a class officer — secretary and treasurer. As a member of the St. Matthew Church youth group, Dick traveled to Kentucky on a mission trip and has worked at local soup kitchens. He's also volunteered with the Posey Humane Society, working at several fundraisers for the organization and at its new building doing odd jobs such as cleaning cages. And as a member of the 2012 Super Bowl "1st and Green" initiative, Dick is working on an issue with statewide importance. He was chosen to be Mount Vernon High School's student ambassador to the initiative, which is aimed at using Indianapolis' status as Super Bowl host to promote environmental stewardship and recycling. Mount Vernon High School counselor Dan Guthrie said Dick is a promoter of green energy and technology and "recognizes environmental impact." For good measure, Dick also has held part-time jobs as Wesselman's grocery and elsewhere. Guthrie said Dick is currently ranked first in his class and "has shown tremendous academic skill." "Ryan truly is an outstanding individual," Guthrie said. And amid all of his other endeavors, "being with family and friends is also important to me," said Dick, the son of Paul and Debbie Dick of Mount Vernon, Ind. "I enjoy the time I spend with them."

Gretchen Graber, Washington Catholic High School Gretchen Graber has successfully balanced a life that includes coursework, athletics, employment and other activities. At Washington Catholic High School, Graber pursues academic excellence by taking the most rigorous academic classes offered and maintaining the highest academic honors each quarter, said Karie Craney, dean of students. Graber, said Craney, "demonstrates a desire for knowledge versus a desire to always be right or first." But Graber's classroom endeavors are only the beginning. Her membership in Washington Catholic's Key Club and BETA Club keep her busy, and she was co-captain of this year's girls' soccer team. She also is a three-year cheerleader. "Gretchen is a mentor and excellent role model for all the younger students in the Washington Catholic school system," said Morris Petty, her grandfather. She is heavily involved at Our Lady of Hope Catholic Church, working on vacation Bible school and a variety of other projects. She has volunteered for the Daviess County (Ind.) Animal Shelter and a variety of other organizations in Washington. She worked for Scoops Ice Cream for two years and then as a cart attendant for Country Oaks Golf Course. "I will give everyone respect, for everyone has the right to receive that," Graber said. "I love to help people, whether it be children, teenagers or adults. I love to do things for other people, and I never expect anything in return." Graber was nominated for a Star Student award by her stepbrother, Matthew Stuart. "Gretchen is an amazing young lady who never ceases to amaze me, along with everybody, in everything she does," Stuart said. Stuart described Graber as "the definition of a persistent person. Whenever she has a task at hand, she will do everything in her power to get it done. The same thing goes for her goals. She sets her goals high, but she knows she'll achieve them. She will stop at nothing to achieve them; I think that says a lot about a junior in high school."

Julia James, Castle High School Julia James is a believer that life isn't about finding yourself, it's about creating yourself. The Castle High School student has excelled in numerous creative pursuits, from musicals to foreign language to photography. James "is by nature inquisitive and conscientious. Obviously, she displays a maturity level beyond her years," said Beth Euler, a teacher at Castle. "She is an exceptionally well-rounded student and young woman." A member of Castle's show choir and student council as well as the National Honor Society, James has performed in Castle fall musicals as well as Warrick County summer musicals. Upon discovering that Castle did not have a photography club, James decided to start one herself. James will get to spread her wings even more after this school year. The member of Castle's French Club will participate in the summer Indiana University Honors Program in Foreign Languages, which will include a seven-week stay in France. "From a very early age, she showed a true passion for the arts," said Sharon Bassler, James' aunt. "Julia took dance, piano and voice lessons that have given her a strong foundation for her many performances through the years." Bassler said that her daughter — James' cousin — also was selected for the IU Honors Program in Foreign Languages. "I know the dedication that is involved to be chosen and then to participate," Bassler said. "This experience will afford Julia an education far beyond the walls of a classroom." For James, the daughter of Jeff and Penny James of Newburgh, trying and excelling at a variety of activities comes naturally. She also works outside of school as a cleaning technician at Hamilton Clinic. "I push myself to be the best I can be but also keep in mind those around me," James said.

Sylvia Jang, Signature School Sylvia Jang attended the Evansville Vanderburgh School Corp. Health Science Institute last summer, working side-by-side with doctors and nurses at Deaconess Hospital. The Signature School student said the experience left quite an impression and helped shape her own goals. "They used their own strengths and talents to help a patient get back on his feet," Jang said of the health care professionals she witnessed, "and each role was essential and executed with precision, no matter how insignificant it may seem. "This is my dream — to help people to the best of my ability with others who value their work as much as I do." Jang's family and friends say she already is well on her way. A solid student in Signature School's International Baccalaureate program, the daughter of Ken and Yeon-Sook Jang of Evansville is a member of the school's orchestra as well as the National Honor Society. She was selected for Indiana University's Lilly Scholars Program. "Sylvia is an extremely motivated learner," said Shane Thread, a science teacher at Signature. "Her care and concern for learning goes well beyond the desire to get the grade. Sylvia is always busy when she is at school: She is either working on her own classwork or helping other students with theirs." Outside of school, Jang also has lent time to a lengthy list of local organizations. One of her favorite out-of-school pastimes is baby-sitting. "Sylvia is truly an exceptional person," said Lezlie Ward, the mother of the children Jang baby-sits. "I am glad to know her. And I have had the feeling that she is a good influence on my own children. She shows them by example how to be responsible and fun, dependable and flexible. Both of my children can't wait to have Sylvia come and stay with them. I have asked her to talk with the children regarding homework habits and peer pressure." Jang said she's learned through baby-sitting and her other experiences that "little things can be done" in school and the community "that mean the world to someone else."

Ellen Kendall, North High School Ellen Kendall's impressive academic and activities resume only tell a part of her story. The North High School student is a National Honor Society member with a perfect grade-point average. She is on North's cross country, volleyball, tennis, swimming and track teams, and she is a committee co-chair on the Youth Resources of Southwestern Indiana Teen Advisory Council. And yet, about half-way through her sophomore year at North, she found herself dealing with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. Her parents, Chuck and Debbie Kendall of Evansville, suspect that the condition might have come from their daughter's drive for success in so many areas. The Kendalls are proud of Ellen for meeting the problem head-on. "Ellen tackled a tough issue and has worked through it, continuing to succeed in the classroom and beyond," they said. North teacher Brianna Wright said Kendall has accumulated her perfect GPA while taking honors classes. "Ellen continually provides work beyond my expectations," Wright said. "Her level of thinking is that of a college student in that it is analytical and creative. Her writing is always thorough, organized and reflective; it is obvious that she spends time critically thinking about the topic before responding. "In addition, Ellen's behavior in the classroom is always one of concentration on the task at hand and her demeanor is one of kindness." Kendall baby-sits on many weekends, and with the Teen Advisory Council, her duties include organizing guest speakers and developing team-building and leadership activities for all members. "Ellen is one of the most unique and motivated young women I have ever worked with, and I know she has an extremely bright future ahead of her because of her intelligence and genuine heart," said Jo Beth Bootz, a Youth Resources program manager. Wright agreed with Bootz's assessment. "I believe Ellen is a remarkable young lady who will excel in all aspects of life."

Ethan Lehmann, Reitz High School Ethan Lehmann has been on mission trips, marched in the Reitz High School band, taken the stage for the school's speech team, bagged groceries at Schnucks and maintained a 4.0 grade-point average. It's quite a life story for someone who's not yet a senior in high school. Lehmann is busy, but he is praised by family and friends as having his priorities in order. "Ask Ethan what is most important to him and I bet he will tell you: God, family and then giving his best toward his school," said Laura Lehmann, the student's mother. "He is compassionate, hard-working and an all-around great kid. If the old saying is true, 'you only get out of something what you put into it,' then Ethan will go on to achieve great things some day." Lehmann has traveled with Christian Fellowship Church to Chicago twice and Detroit once to do missionary work, and he assists with the church's children's ministry. Reitz teacher Christi Adams, meanwhile, said Lehmann is "truly an academic star." Adams said Lehmann's perfect grade-point average "is even more impressive when one considers the rigorous schedule he has chosen for himself." Lehmann's academic load includes dual-credit and Advanced Placement classes, and he was one of five students to represent Reitz at the University of Southern Indiana World Language Bowl. Lehmann is a member of Reitz's German Club. "I can tell you that the work that I put into my schoolwork is the reason why I am such a successful student," Lehmann said. "Through my academic pursuits, I have learned the lesson that diligence, hard work and perseverance can lead you to achieve any of your goals." Last summer, Lehmann volunteered a day a week at the Westside Food Pantry, at Simpson United Methodist Church. He has worked for Schnucks since July. Lehmann said he will set his sights on college after graduating from Reitz next year, and possibly graduate school down the road.

Katelyn Mehling, Castle High School Once Katelyn Mehling sets her mind on something, there's no stopping her. Case in point: The Castle High School student had a vision for an after-school foreign language program at St. John the Baptist School in Newburgh. Along with about 30 friends, she worked to bring her idea to fruition, and about 125 children at the school now get 45-minute lessons once every two weeks in French, Spanish, German or Japanese. "I am capable of coming up with an idea, developing a plan, and then taking the initiative to see it through," said Mehling, who takes French and Spanish classes at Castle. A five-year member of Warrick County 4-H and the club's current president, Mehling maintains a perfect grade-point average. She is the captain of Castle's English Academic Team and a member of the school's French Academic Team. Elizabeth Rudolph said Mehling's involvement with 4-H is extensive and impressive. It started when the student was in third grade. "From a very early age, she has seized many opportunities offered her to serve the community," Rudolph said. "She started out in her local club by donating collected canned goods and participating in fundraisers for her club and her larger county program." The foreign language initiative at St. John the Baptist reflects another of Mehling's passions. "Katelyn has a great love of language," Rudolph said. She wants to become an interpreter or translator of multiple languages. She found in high school that for many students certain languages did not come as naturally to all. ... She believes that by enabling children the opportunity to try out each of the four languages that are offered at the local high schools, they will be better equipped to make the best choice for themselves at that time without the more severe consequences of affecting their grade-point average." Mehling, the daughter of Paul and Cecelia Mehling of Newburgh, said she is dedicated to each cause in which she involves herself. "I cannot stand to give up once I start something."

Jenna Post, Castle High School Among all of Jenna Post's activities and accomplishments, one that she takes immense pride in is simply being a good sister. The Castle High School student's household contains three older brothers, two younger sisters and five younger brothers. Her siblings include adopted and foster children. "I come from a very diverse and unique family that has helped shape me into the person that I have become," Post said. " ... I feel that my family is the primary influence that made me into an open-minded, distinct, independent individual, and, for that, I am forever grateful." Post, the daughter of Jim and Tracy Post of Newburgh, aspires to be a veterinarian. She works part time for the Warrick Veterinary Clinic, and she started a project called Hope Pets to find homes for abandoned dogs and cats. She said her background has instilled a passion for animals as well as for children from underprivileged families. Post learned about World Vision — an organization which helps to meet the needs of young children in Third World countries — and "took it upon herself to sponsor a child through World Vision and then she coordinated a plan to have our church sponsor children through World Vision," Jim Post said. Active with the Christian Development Center, Post has coordinated vacation Bible school and taught Sunday School. At Castle, the National Honor Society member is known as a "an exceptionally well-rounded, intelligent and respectful student," said Abby Busing, who has taught Post in genetics and zoology. Castle Parent Teacher Organization President Lee Ann Roeder said Post is an outstanding student who "works very hard to balance her academic life with being active in the community, her church, and with her friends and family." Post describes herself as passionate and a "striver." "I have dreams that I want to accomplish, and I don't like sitting back and just wishing they would come true. I try to make them happen."

Adam J. Smith, Gibson Southern Adam Smith has many talents — academics and athletics among them — but his passion is music. "Listening to Adam play the piano is like a little piece of heaven," Brenda Smith said of her son, a Gibson Southern High School student. "Adam's dream is to attend either The Jacobs School of Music at Indiana University or The Berklee College of Music in Boston to pursue a career in composition and film scoring," Brenda Smith said. "He has a true gift in composing music and 'playing by ear.' " That's down the road, though. For now, Smith has plenty to keep him busy. Smith and his Fort Branch family hosted a Japanese exchange student, and last year, he spent 10 days in Tahara City, Japan, as part of the Gibson County Economic Development Corp. delegation. While in Japan, Smith "handled each situation as an opportunity to learn and proudly represented Gibson County, Gibson Southern High School and the United States," said Todd Mosby, CEO of the economic development corporation. He's in the Student Council at Gibson Southern, as well as a basketball and track athlete at the school. In track, he was named his squad's Outstanding Freshman and its Top Sprinter for two years. Gibson Southern Principal James Isaacs said Smith is pursuing an Academic Honors diploma and is fifth in his class. Isaacs agreed with Smith's mother that the student performs magic on the piano. "He is an excellent pianist who has been an accompanist for the school choir, has played for the dedication of the renovated school building and has been one of the youngest musicians in the (school) orchestra for 'Beauty and the Beast' and 'Footloose,' " Isaacs said. Smith works at True Value hardware store and has held other part-time jobs. "My parents (Michael and Brenda Smith) have always pushed me in believing that being well-rounded will pay dividends in becoming a mature adult," Smith said.

Greta Smith, Signature School Two qualities that distinguish Greta Smith are extensive preparation for class and depth of thought, according to those who know the Signature School student. "She does not jump to a conclusion and seeks to know the facts before she forms a complete opinion," said Smith's aunt, Ann Dunn. "Greta's maturity level is much higher than her numeric age." Added Corrie Sarol, a teacher at Signature: "She routinely comes to see me outside of class for constructive criticism of her work so she can improve it, even when it is not for a grade. Greta's work ethic and commitment to her education is remarkable, and this shows not just in her grades, but also in the deep respect her peers and her teachers have for her." An International Baccalaureate student at Signature, Smith knows that making hard work a habit at this time in her life will pay dividends later. "I am studying and working to my full potential now in order to become successful in college," she said. Smith, the daughter of Steve Smith and Nancy Bennett and the stepdaughter of Steve Bennett, is a Student Council member and vice president of the school's Speech Team. She also will be performing in the school's musical. "I am the happiest when I am performing in front of others in speech and now the musical," Smith said. Before landing a spot in the musical, Smith worked as a hostess at Biaggi's for more than a year. She plans to return to that job in a few months, once she returns from a trip to France. Sarol said Smith's community work also is noteworthy. She has volunteered with the Albion Fellows Bacon Center, Race for the Cure, the Growth Alliance for Greater Evansville and Funk in the City. She is a participant in Signature's recycling and cleanup days. Sonya Gray, managing partner at Biaggi's, said she has employed many high school students, "Yet I have been most impressed with Greta's commitment and dedication to those activities and causes to which she becomes associated. Her commitment to her own education, I must say, is unsurpassed by any young person I have met. She has a drive and determination to excel at all those activities."

Travis Thompson, Mount Carmel Travis Thompson has worked alongside his father, Jeff, in the family oil business for as long as he can remember. "Starting at the age of 3, I rode with my dad while he was doing his daily routine," the Mount Carmel High School student said. "Dad taught me the names of tools and what they were used for. I did a lot of go-for running for my dad — getting tools and equipment he needed." Jeff Thompson said the business of producing and selling crude was good for several years, but it struggled for a while after Travis was born. "Travis witnessed firsthand my struggles to survive in a very tough business — to keep the wolf away from the door," Jeff Thompson said. "But, he also witnessed my determination not to fail. I think those experiences, while stressful, helped mold my son's character and work ethic into what they are today." Indeed, those who know Travis Thompson describe his work ethic as quite impressive. He's taken part in basketball, baseball, cross country and track at Mount Carmel while holding a 4.69 grade-point average on a 5.0 scale. Wabash Community Schools Superintendent Tim Buss said Thompson's most impressive achievement might be the gift he gives to Mount Carmel each Christmas — the student single-handedly built a light display for town residents to drive through and enjoy, for free. Thompson "is a tribute to the good upbringing he received from his parents, but he also has taken it upon himself to model a lifestyle of honesty, respect and strong work habits," Buss said. Thompson has volunteered with Big Brothers/Big Sisters and as a youth sports coach. And, yes, he still helps with the family business, Jeff Thompson Oil. "I set specific goals and work hard to that end," said Thompson, the son of Jeff and Julie Thompson of Mount Carmel, Ill. "I am responsible, and first and foremost, I have a conscience. I appreciate the many blessings in my life."

Bailey Trela, Day School Bailey Trela lost his mother to breast cancer last year but said her lessons always will be with him. Trela said his mother encouraged hard work, but she also "never created the idea in my head that anything less than perfection is bad." The Signature School student is the youngest of a family of four boys. The passing of Trela's mother did not stymie his positive attitude, work ethic and high aspirations, friends say. The resident of New Harmony, Ind., works at the Red Geranium restaurant as a busboy. He is Student Council vice president at Signature School, and he volunteers with the Youth Resources of Southwestern Indiana Teen Court and a tutoring program at Patchwork Central. Trela has made valuable contributions to the Teen Court in a variety of roles, said Hillary Krantz, manager of the Youth Resources program. "He has gained not only a valuable understanding of the judicial system but has been a positive influence on his peers," Krantz said. Signature teacher Julia Gregg said Trela is a high academic achiever in the school's International Baccalaureate program and well-respected by peers. Gregg marveled at Trela's creativity. For a project on the book "Lord of the Flies" by William Golding, Trela built a replica of Golding's island, using parts of a T-shirt, twigs and candle wax. "I imagine Bailey will have writing as either a vocation or an avocation because he is witty, articulate, well-read and exceptionally insightful," Gregg said. Trela noted Signature School's level of academic rigor can be stressful for students. He said he tries to cut through some of that by making his classmates smile because, as his mother told him, perfection isn't necessary all the time. "Most people seem pretty anxious every school day. I try to relieve that wherever I can," Trela said. " ... It's not right that they should be that stressed." Trela, the son of Mark Trela and the late Rebecca Trela, now lives with his grandmother, Donna Cary. Cary said that despite her grandson's long schedule and numerous obligations, "he never complains."

Austin Vaughn, senior, Castle Austin Vaughn's path toward a career in veterinary medicine is off to a good start. The son of David and Kathy Vaughn of Newburgh, he already works as a kennel technician at Village East Animal Hospital, and he also attended Purdue University's Boiler Vet camp. At Castle High School, "I have chosen classes based on my intent to pursue a career in veterinary medicine, a field which I find fascinating," he said. Why veterinary medicine? Vaughn's father, David Vaughn, said Austin was moved by a personal experience. "About 4 years ago, Oscar, the brother to our current Boston terrier, had to be euthanized due to a debilitating spinal tumor," David Vaughn said. "Austin was devastated as Oscar had slept every night with him in his bed for the vast majority of his 8 years. "He wrote a poem about Oscar that still hangs on the wall beside his bed. After that experience of seeing how our veterinarian, Dr. (William) Melchiors, had dealt so caringly with Oscar and our family, Austin decided he wanted to pursue veterinary medicine." Faith also is important to Vaughn. The Fellowship of Christian Athletes member took a weeklong mission trip in 2007 to Pinehaven Christian Children's Ranch in Montana with a group representing First Christian Church of Newburgh. Castle teacher Beth Euler said she also has been impressed with Vaughn's writing ability — so much that she encouraged him to join Castle's Writers Round Table, the Creative Writing Club that she sponsors. "Austin was elected as vice president of the club by his peers," Euler said. "His organizational skills and enthusiasm for writing are an asset to the club." Vaughn is a member of both the National Honor Society and Japanese National Honor Society, and he volunteers with the St. John after-school tutoring program in Newburgh. Adam Colter, Vaughn's youth pastor, holds the student's character and integrity in high regard. "He has proved himself wise and mature beyond his years, a good friend to those dealing with difficulties and a capable leader among his peers."

Taylor Wornica, Pike Central Juggling a heavy academic load and varsity sports sounds difficult enough, but Taylor Wornica has even more things going on. She's vice president of the Pike Central High School Student Government and a member of Business Professionals of America, for instance, while working as an office assistant at an eye care clinic. During the summer, she's a lifeguard at Prides Creek Park. "When she started school, I was amazed at the determination and hard work she displayed at such a young age," said Wornica's mother, Tricia Wornica. "I continue year after year to be amazed by her intelligence and academic success." Wornica is a member of Pike Central's swim team, a cheerleader and also serves as a manager for the baseball team. She maintains a perfect grade-point average and was inducted into the National Honor Society last fall. Tricia Wornica said her daughter also understands the importance of community service, ringing bells during the holiday season for the Salvation Army, helping with food drives and assisting a local family who lost their home and possessions in a fire. A member of St. Peter and Paul Church, the daughter of Terry and Tricia Wornica has visited nursing homes and participated in a youth retreat. Brett Warner, a family friend and vice president of retail banking at German American Bank, said Wornica "always displays a helpful nature in any activity in which she is involved. She always goes above and beyond what is expected of her." Pike Central English teacher Abigail Vinnedge, who also works with Wornica as the school's cheerleading coach and Student Government sponsor, said she "possesses a plethora of qualities — dependability, energy, open-mindedness, honesty and, above all, integrity — which make her a well-rounded and highly respected individual within our school and community."